Every year an estimated 8 million children--6 percent of total births worldwide--are born with a serious birth defect of genetic or partially genetic origin. Additionally, hundreds of thousands more are born with serious birth defects of post-conception origin due to maternal exposure to environmental agents. At least 3.3 million children less than 5 years of age die annually because of serious birth defects and the majority of those who survive may be mentally and physically disabled for life.

Many people remember the March of Dimes for conquering epidemic polio, and the Foundation continues to receive questions about the disorder. The March of Dimes responds to these inquiries and often refers people to sources of help.

Historians have called the conquest of polio one of the great achievements of the 20th century. Thanks to the March of Dimes, and the millions of people who supported the Foundation, we no longer have to fear another devastating polio epidemic like the ones that terrorized previous generations.

Join as as we learn more about the March of Dimes, and how it played in to Rotary's history!